Robin Soderling finally managed to win his first 1000 ATP Master.
After winning a thrilling semifinal against an inspired Llodra, the Sweden had an easier win with Gael Monfils 6-1 – 7-6 (1).
The French, that came from an epic victory against world Nr. 2 Roger Federer and was strongly supported by the home crowd, was supposed to be a very tough contender.
The Swede cruised past Monfils in the first set by 6-1. The French than had a sort of come back in the second set when he managed to get to the tie break where Soderling displayed again strong nerves and managed to win at 1.
“It feels great†said Soderling “I don’t have a very good record in finals, and especially here in Paris. I lost two finals at Roland Garros. Of course it’s great to reach the final in a Grand Slam and also in a Masters 1000, but I think a final is that one match you really want to win. I’m really happy that I played well today, and now I’m here winning the title’.
“When I won that last point, I just felt so happy and I felt so relieved. I really wanted to win this match so much.â€
“I was extremely nervous before this match, I didn’t sleep much at all last night. I really wanted to do well today, and I’m really happy the way I started the match. I came out playing really well’.
“Then after the first set it was a little bit easier for me, even though he started to play a little bit better. I was a bit more relaxed and I was going for my shots. At the end I think I played a really good tie-break. I’m really happy that I played my best tennis when it really matters.â€
With this victory Soderling will rise to world Nr.4.
